SUV and family car drivers warned over resale price hit
You risk extra costs if you make changes to your vehicle
SUV and family car drivers warned over resale price hit
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Motorists often splash out on extras to enhance their driving experience or give their vehicle a fresh look. However, some of these add-ons could turn out to be regrettable purchases down the line.

Car specialists at Auto Express have urged car owners thinking of getting upgrades to consider how these changes may affect their vehicle's resale value. The experts looked at various enhancements drivers may be tempted by, such as alloy wheels, bigger tyres or a sunroof.

While certain additions can boost the price you'll achieve when selling your motor, others could prove to be an expensive blunder. Paul Barker, editor at Auto Express, said: "Choosing the right optional extras comes down to understanding what the next buyer expects and what will genuinely make the car more appealing.

"Some features add real value, whilst others are more about personal indulgence." One modification that could be worthwhile is a panoramic sunroof. Mr Barker said: "For SUVs and family cars, an opening glass roof can make a big difference.

"It brightens the cabin, improves the driving experience, and can recoup up to £1,000 when you sell the car. It's one of the few options where buyers often see a decent chunk of their money back."

Investing in leather upholstery is another upgrade worth considering, as it can lend your vehicle a more upmarket feel. Mr Barker said: "While it's often expensive to specify, it can add £500 to £700 in resale value and makes the car more desirable to a wide range of buyers."

Another enhancement that could boost your car's resale value is fitting alloy wheels, as they can elevate the appearance of your vehicle and make it more appealing to potential buyers. Mr Barker also highlighted several other modifications that might prove worthwhile:

On the flip side, the motoring specialist warned there are certain upgrades best avoided:

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The Daily Mirror's UK motoring section offers accessible, up-to-date news, reviews, and features on cars, driving, and automotive trends, catering to everyday drivers with a focus on practical advice and consumer issues. It reflects the paper’s working-class, mainstream audience with engaging content on new models, road safety, and motoring legislation.